A lively study of the function of theatre entertainment in the First World War, 1914-18. The theatre's role as unofficial government aide in the form of recruiter, propagandist and fund raiser is examined; so too its use as morale booster and provider of a war-related role for the aristocracy, female and military over-aged male artists. The organization of theatre for and by the military and civilian concert parties for troops in training and at the Front is analysed.